Papa John's begins franchising in pubs

By James McAllister

- Last updated on GMT

Pictured: Saracen’s Head owner Martin Hirst and general manager Lucy Dell
Pictured: Saracen’s Head owner Martin Hirst and general manager Lucy Dell

Related tags Pizza Pizza delivery Franchising Pub & bar Delivery & takeaway

Papa John's has signed its first pub franchise and says it is looking to secure similar opportunities with other pubs in the future.

Partnering with Staffordshire-based pub the Saracen’s Head, it marks the first time Papa John's pizzas will be available to order from a pub kitchen.

The franchise will launch next Monday (12 April) to coincide with the unlocking of outdoor hospitality, with customers of the pub able to order pizza for consumption in the beer garden, or for takeaway and delivery.

Papa John’s is now looking for further pub opportunities to expand the model.

“With pubs re-opening, Papa John’s at the Saracen’s Head is a great example of how we can help drive profitable growth for selected establishments right at the heart of the community," says Justin Gilbert, director of business development for Papa John’s UK.

"By flexing our franchise offering we can provide the global support and marketing of our brand to suitable pubs to help them drive traffic and differentiate from the competition.  They can now reap the rewards of our high-quality ingredients, processes and products with a low cost of entry to benefit their existing eat-in dining market."

Gilbert adds that if there is no existing franchisee in a pub’s trade zone, there is also the opportunity to deliver to the local community opening up a new year-round revenue stream. 

"Our team is dedicated to ensuring we can offer our pizza in more locations, so our valued customers can enjoy Papa John’s where and when they choose.

"It means everyone’s included in the Papa John’s experience and we welcome applications from other suitable venues who are looking at adding a quality branded dining experience for their customers.”

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